Halloween is almost here! Safety Cone Sam, Cameron the Camera and Belle the Bike have some tips to help you stay safe while enjoying a spooktacular time. If you’re planning to trick-or-treat or be out and about on Halloween, remember to keep these important tips in mind.
Tips for Motorists:
Drive with caution: make sure to slow down when driving on streets during Halloween and all year around.
Be alert: watch out for children who may cross the road without looking.
Reduce speed in residential areas: the speed limit is a maximum – driving slower helps you react to unexpected situations.
Take it slow around crowds: exercise extra caution when large groups are present.
Tips for Trick-or-Treating:
Stick together: always go trick-or-treating with a group or a trusted adult and set a meeting spot in case anyone gets separated.
Cross streets safely: use controlled crosswalks when possible and watch out for oncoming traffic.
Follow a clear route: when going from house to house, don’t crisscross back and forth across the street. Work your way up one side of the street followed by the next street.
Choose bright or reflective costumes: wear clothing that stands out and consider adding reflective tape or carrying a flashlight to improve visibility at night for your safety.
Consider the proper costume: masks can obstruct your vision – instead use face paint as a safer alternative. Ensure that costumes fit well and avoid having long dangling pieces that can cause tripping.
Inspect candy before eating: check all treats for any open or tampered wrappers before letting your kids enjoy them.
Establish an emergency plan: review with your children how to call 9-1-1 and what to do in case they become lost or need help when trick-or-treating.
Homeowner responsibility: make sure to clear sidewalks of leaves, extension cords and any other obstacles to ensure safe passage for trick-or-treaters.
Make Halloween accessible for all. Some trick-or-treaters may find it challenging to navigate inclines, stairs, or curving walkways. Consider these tips when setting up your trick-or-treating station in an easily accessible location for everyone.
Make sure any pathways to your driveway and walkways are free of obstacles.
Consider setting up your candy station at the end of your driveway or in your garage.
Park your vehicle on the street or in your garage to provide easy access.
Some trick-or-treaters may have trouble seeing their options, so take a moment to describe the “boo-tiful” treats you’re offering.
Remember that not everyone communicates in the same way. Your kindness will be appreciated by children and their caregivers.
Central York Fire Services is also inviting trick-or-treaters to come and grab some ‘fang’tastic treats at your neighbourhood fire station in Newmarket and Aurora from 4-7 p.m. on Halloween night! This is a great opportunity for those first-time trick-or-treaters to get in on the fun in a safe way. The first 50 kids at each station will receive a glow in the dark helmet to help be visible while out trick-or-treating.
Please note that firefighters are in service and may not always be in the station or may need to leave during your visit. If a station is unstaffed due to an emergency call, it will be closed to the public until crews return.
Stay alert and stay safe.
For other safety tips, visit newmarket.ca/safetydriven.
